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Updated: Jul 30, 2026
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Published on: March 25, 2016
Abstract:
Morphology of the basophilic fibers erroneously considered by some authors as the fungus mycelium found in 4 newborns with periventricular leukomalacia is studied at the light- and electron microscopic level. Differential diagnosis between fungi and these structures which, in the authors opinion, are the damaged non-myelinated axons, including those with mineralization, is presented.
Insights
Basophilic fibers in newborns with periventricular leukomalacia were studied. These structures are damaged non-myelinated axons, not fungus mycelium, and may include mineralization.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Neonatal Neurology
- Microscopy
Context:
- Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is a common neonatal brain injury.
- Misidentification of tissue structures can hinder accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Basophilic fibers have been previously misidentified as fungal elements in PVL cases.
Purpose:
- To investigate the morphology of basophilic fibers observed in newborns with PVL.
- To differentiate these structures from fungal mycelium using light and electron microscopy.
- To propose an alternative identification for these fibers.
Summary:
- This study examined basophilic fibers in four newborns diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia.
- Light and electron microscopy revealed these fibers are damaged non-myelinated axons, some with mineralization.
- The findings differentiate these axonal structures from fungal mycelium.
Impact:
- Clarifies the nature of basophilic fibers in PVL, correcting potential diagnostic errors.
- Provides accurate histopathological identification for neonatal brain injury research.
- Improves understanding of axonal damage and mineralization in periventricular leukomalacia.
